Polpettone Americano is the ultimate Italian comfort dish that has found its way into American homes. This irresistible meatloaf combines the rich flavors of ground beef, aromatic herbs, and crispy bacon, creating a dish that satisfies cravings and warms the heart. Perfect for cozy family dinners or a gathering with friends, this dish embodies the essence of comfort food. Let’s delve into how to make this delicious meal that’s sure to impress!

Why You’ll Love This Polpettone Americano

This dish is not only flavorful but also versatile. Here are a few reasons why you will adore it:

It’s a delightful fusion of Italian and American cuisine, making it a classic American meatloaf.
Easy to prepare, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Great for meal prep, it can be made in advance and reheated.
It satisfies picky eaters, making it a family-friendly choice.
Offers a variety of serving options to suit everyone’s taste.
It retains moisture well, thanks to the bacon wrap, ensuring every bite is juicy.
Utilizes simple, accessible ingredients, including the best American meatloaf ingredients.
It’s gluten-free, accommodating various dietary needs.

Ingredients for Polpettone Americano

Gather these items:

1 ½ lbs (680 g) ground beef (or mix of beef and pork)
½ cup breadcrumbs
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 large eggs
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
½ cup milk
2 tbsp ketchup or tomato paste
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tbsp chopped parsley
1 tsp dried oregano
Salt and black pepper to taste
10–12 slices bacon
¼ cup ketchup
1 tbsp honey or brown sugar
1 tsp Dijon mustard

How to Make Polpettone Americano Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, eggs, onion, garlic, milk, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, parsley, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until combined.
Step 3: Form into an even loaf shape and place in the prepared baking dish.
Step 4: Lay bacon slices over the loaf, overlapping slightly, and tuck the edges underneath to secure.
Step 5: Bake for 45–55 minutes, until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). If using glaze, brush over the top during the last 15 minutes for a shiny finish.
Step 6: Let the loaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with parsley and drizzle with olive oil if desired.

Irresistibly Juicy Polpettone Americano Recipe to Savor - Polpettone Americano - main visual representation

Pro Tips for the Best Polpettone Americano

Keep these in mind:

Use a mix of ground beef and pork for extra flavor.
Do not overmix the meat mixture to keep it tender.
Let the meatloaf rest before slicing to maintain its juices.
For a unique twist, try adding different herbs or spices.

Best Ways to Serve Polpettone Americano

This dish is versatile and pairs well with:

Mashed potatoes for a classic comfort meal.
Steamed vegetables for a healthy side.
Crusty bread to soak up any delicious juices.

How to Store and Reheat Polpettone Americano

To store leftovers, place slices in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave for quick servings. This makes meal prep easy!

Frequently Asked Questions About Polpettone Americano

What’s the secret to perfect Polpettone Americano?

The secret lies in the ingredients and cooking method. Ensure you mix the meat gently and allow it to rest after baking. This keeps your meatloaf recipe moist and flavorful.

Can I make Polpettone Americano ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the meat mixture a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Simply bake it when you’re ready for a delicious family meal.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Polpettone Americano?

Avoid overmixing the meat and be careful not to undercook it. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 160°F (71°C) for safe consumption.

Variations of Polpettone Americano You Can Try

Here are some fun variations to consider:

Add green bell peppers or mushrooms for added flavor.
Try using ground turkey for a healthier alternative.
Incorporate different cheeses like mozzarella for a gooey interior.
Experiment with different sauces, such as BBQ or marinara, for a unique taste.

Irresistibly Juicy Polpettone Americano Recipe to Savor

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Irresistibly Juicy Polpettone Americano – The Ultimate Italian Comfort Dish You’ll Love

Author: Emily
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 55 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Italian-American
Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

Scale

1 ½ lbs (680 g) ground beef (or mix of beef and pork)
½ cup breadcrumbs
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 large eggs
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
½ cup milk
2 tbsp ketchup or tomato paste
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tbsp chopped parsley
1 tsp dried oregano
Salt and black pepper to taste
10–12 slices bacon
¼ cup ketchup
1 tbsp honey or brown sugar
1 tsp Dijon mustard

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Instructions

Preheat to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, eggs, onion, garlic, milk, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, parsley, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until combined.
Form into an even loaf shape and place in the prepared baking dish.
Lay bacon slices over the loaf, overlapping slightly, and tuck the edges underneath to secure.
Bake for 45–55 minutes, until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). If using glaze, brush over the top during the last 15 minutes for a shiny finish.
Let the loaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with parsley and drizzle with olive oil if desired.